Patrick Terminals, Australia’s largest container terminal operator, has installed newly fabricated aluminium access platforms to service refrigerated shipping containers at its Fremantle operations.
The access platforms are designed to provide safe access to reefer containers stacked up to three units high, spanning nine containers in width, with access required from both sides. Materials and structural engineering were tailored for harsh coastal environments where extreme corrosion resistance is critical. Traditional access structures rely on external wind bracing along the sides, which would obstruct access to containers and limit operational efficiency. In response, OEM Group® engineered an innovative Custom Design and Fabrication approach, integrating the wind bracing within the stairways themselves, enabling the stairs to absorb wind loading without restricting access or performance.
The project was delivered through a technical collaboration between OEM Group® and Capral, a leading Australian manufacturer and distributor of aluminium products and solutions. The structures were engineered and fabricated in-house by the OEM Group® Custom Solutions Engineering and Design Team using custom-milled aluminium supplied by Capral. This tailored material approach significantly reduced manufacturing waste, making aluminium cost-competitive with standard galvanised steel while delivering superior long-term durability and performance.
“We place strong importance on understanding the real needs and challenges of our clients. Our team takes pride in developing solutions that are practical, safe and engineered for long-term performance. This project is a strong example of how collaboration and thoughtful design can create real operational value. I am incredibly proud of the work delivered by our Engineering and Fabrication teams on this solution,” said Peter Fleay, Manager – Estimation, Design & Fabrication, OEM Group®.
The new platforms reinforce OEM Group® capability to deliver custom solutions for industries such as transport, logistics and freight operations where safe and efficient access is critical.
If you are looking for Custom Solutions or Custom Design and Fabrication tailored to your operational requirements, contact OEM Group® or visit oemgroup.com.au.
